University of South Dakota Overview

University of South Dakota is a four-year, full-time, selective, lower transfer-in, higher education institution located in Vermillion, SD. It has an enrollment of 5,328 undergraduate students. The admissions acceptance rate is 87.01%.

The average annual cost of attendance after financial aid is $19,415. Tuition is $9,432.00 without financial aid.

University of South Dakota is a predominantly bachelor’s-degree granting school.

At University of South Dakota, 77.33% of students return after freshman year (national average: 68%).

University of South Dakota has a student-to-faculty ratio of 14 to 1.

University of South Dakota Website

University of South Dakota Admissions

For the incoming class in 2023, the acceptance rate was 87.01%.

SAT or ACT scores are considered but not required

• The average SAT score was 1122.0 for the incoming class of 2023.
• The median ACT score was 22.0 for the incoming class to 2023.

University of South Dakota Cost

The average annual cost of attendance after financial aid is $19,415. The in-state tuition is $9,432.00. Out-of-state tuition is $12,942.00

The average tuition is:

• $14,873, when family income is less than $30,000

• $16,321, when family income is between $30,001 and $48,000 

• $19,130, when family income is between $48,001 and $75,000

• $21,342, when family income is between $75,001 and $110,000

• $21,074, when family income is more than $110,000 

The average tuition shown here is based on the NET costs to students who receive financial aid. For the incoming class of 2023, 46.77% of students received a federal student loan and 20.34% of students received a Pell Grant.

Tuition is $12,942.00 without financial aid, or the in-state tuition discount.

University of South Dakota Net Price Calculator

University of South Dakota Majors/Salaries

University of South Dakota has academic offerings within the core majors listed below.  

Please note that different schools classify majors differently, so it is best to view the school’s website to see the various programs it offers. See detailed information about the individual majors at University of South Dakota here.

Recent Graduate Salaries

(Average salaries of students from select majors two years after graduation)

• Communication and Media Studies. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $33,423
• Computer and Information Sciences, General. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $62,012
• Educational Administration and Supervision. (Master’s Degree) – $62,260
• Educational Administration and Supervision. (Doctoral Degree) – $97,071
• Special Education and Teaching. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $39,369
• Special Education and Teaching. (Master’s Degree) – $43,798
• Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Levels and Methods. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $38,739
• Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Levels and Methods. (Master’s Degree) – $42,123
• Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Subject Areas. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $38,048
• Romance Languages, Literatures, and Linguistics. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $27,476
• Law. (First Professional Degree) – $52,941
• English Language and Literature, General. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $27,494
• Liberal Arts and Sciences, General Studies and Humanities. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $27,439
• Biology, General. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $25,967
• International/Global Studies. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $24,035
• Parks, Recreation and Leisure Studies. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $30,650
• Psychology, General. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $30,616
• Clinical, Counseling and Applied Psychology. (Master’s Degree) – $45,149
• Criminal Justice and Corrections. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $39,249
• Human Services, General. (Master’s Degree) – $57,318
• Public Administration. (Master’s Degree) – $70,456
• Social Work. (Master’s Degree) – $42,073
• Anthropology. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $19,227
• Economics. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $39,729
• Political Science and Government. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $35,060
• Drama/Theatre Arts and Stagecraft. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $24,730
• Fine and Studio Arts. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $30,228
• Health Services/Allied Health/Health Sciences, General. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $34,660
• Communication Disorders Sciences and Services. (Master’s Degree) – $51,607
• Dental Support Services and Allied Professions. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $54,252
• Health and Medical Administrative Services. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $44,021
• Allied Health Diagnostic, Intervention, and Treatment Professions. (Master’s Degree) – $100,951
• Medicine. (First Professional Degree) – $57,860
• Mental and Social Health Services and Allied Professions. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $31,854
• Mental and Social Health Services and Allied Professions. (Master’s Degree) – $39,369
• Rehabilitation and Therapeutic Professions. (Master’s Degree) – $62,632
• Rehabilitation and Therapeutic Professions. (First Professional Degree) – $65,170
• Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing. (Associate’s Degree) – $47,473
• Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $57,693
• Business Administration, Management and Operations. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $38,289
• Business Administration, Management and Operations. (Master’s Degree) – $68,778
• Accounting and Related Services. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $40,641
• Accounting and Related Services. (Master’s Degree) – $62,012
• Finance and Financial Management Services. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $44,971
• Marketing. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $41,565
• History. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $28,055

University of South Dakota Diversity

The racial diversity of students who received financial aid at University of South Dakota

• American Indian/Alaska Native: 1.61%
• Asian: 1.31%
• Black: 3.53%
• Hispanic: 4.50%
• Native Hawaiian/Pacific Islander: 0.02%
• Non-resident alien: 1.97%
• Two or more races: 3.53%
• Unknown: 0.96%
• White: 82.56%

At University of South Dakota, 10.51% of undergraduate students are 25 years old, or older.

University of South Dakota Frequently Asked Questions

How is school spirit at University of South Dakota?

The University of South Dakota has a passionate and lively school spirit. The university has a strong community and a rich tradition of supporting its athletic teams and attending various events held on campus. Students come together to cheer on the Coyotes at sporting events and participate in various student organizations that enhance campus life, such as the Student Government Association, Greek organizations, and more. USD also hosts a variety of events throughout the year that promote school spirit and community involvement, including homecoming week, Coyoteopoly, Coyote Day of Service, and more. Overall, the school spirit at the University of South Dakota is vibrant and inclusive, fostering a strong sense of pride among students, alumni, and the community.

What are some popular extracurriculars at University of South Dakota?

There are many extracurricular activities available at the University of South Dakota. Some of the most popular extracurriculars include: 1) Greek Life – Fraternities and sororities are very popular at USD and provide students with opportunities for leadership, community service, and socializing. 2) Sports – The university offers a wide range of sports such as basketball, football, baseball, softball, soccer, golf, track and field, and swimming. 3) Student Government – Students can participate in Student Government Association (SGA), which offers opportunities for students to participate in campus decision-making and advocacy. 4) Music and Theater – The university has an excellent music and theater program which provides students plenty of opportunities for involvement in concerts, plays, and musicals. 5) Volunteer work – The university offers many volunteer opportunities that enable students to give back to their community and gain practical experience.

How are the food choices at University of South Dakota?

The University of South Dakota offers a variety of dining options on campus, including traditional dining halls, food courts, and cafes. The food choices are varied, with options ranging from fast food to healthier choices like salads, fresh fruit, and vegetarian options. The university also offers gluten-free and allergy-friendly options in all of its dining locations. Additionally, the university holds special events and themed meals to offer students a more enjoyable dining experience. In terms of quality, students generally find the food to be satisfactory.

Is there Greek life at University of South Dakota?

Yes, the University of South Dakota has Greek life on campus. There are 8 active fraternities and 7 active sororities nationally recognized by the university’s fraternity and sorority affairs office. The Greek organizations range from social to academic and community service based and provide students with diverse opportunities for personal and leadership development.

What is University of South Dakota known for?

The University of South Dakota is known for its top-quality academic programs, particularly in the areas of health sciences, law, business, and education. The University of South Dakota is known for its Sanford School of Medicine which is respected for its research and health care services throughout the state of South Dakota. It is also recognized as a leader in legal education through its School of Law and as a major center for business education in the region. Additionally, USD has a strong commitment to undergraduate education and offers many opportunities for students to participate in research and other forms of experiential learning.

What are the most popular school clubs at University of South Dakota?

The University of South Dakota offers a variety of student clubs and organizations that cater to a range of interests. According to the university’s website, some of the most popular clubs at USD include: 1. Coyote Crazies: A club that supports athletics and promotes school spirit. 2. Student Government Association: A group that advocates for student interests and seeks to improve campus life. 3. Coyote Radio: A radio station that gives students the opportunity to develop their broadcasting skills and share their voices. 4. Greek Life: USD has a variety of sororities and fraternities that offer social, academic, and personal development opportunities. 5. COYOTELab: An entrepreneurship club that supports innovation and provides resources for students looking to start their own businesses. These are just a few examples of the many clubs and organizations available at the University of South Dakota. Students can also start their own clubs if they have a unique interest that isn’t currently represented on campus.

Is the campus at University of South Dakota safe?

The campus at University of South Dakota is generally considered safe. The university takes safety and security seriously and has its own police department dedicated to protecting the campus community. However, like any college campus, it is always important to take precautions and be aware of your surroundings, especially when walking alone at night. The university offers a safety escort service for students who feel uncomfortable walking alone on campus after dark. Additionally, the campus has emergency call boxes strategically located throughout the campus that can be used to contact the police in case of an emergency.